Special Collections

A range of Special Collections are found at both Berri and Barmera library locations. As you scroll below, you will notice that some materials are limited to use in the library only, due to their irreplaceable nature and physical condition. Staff are available to assist you with details regarding Copyright and duplication of resources in these circumstances.

Family History
Berri Library has a comprehensive collection of genealogy materials both in hard copy and online format. Located in the Local Heritage Room, these items are for use in the library only, however in some instances loan copies have been made available in the main collection. There is a volunteer on hand each Friday afternoon at 2pm to assist you in your search. Please ring the library on 8595 2666 for more details or to reserve a computer.

Barmera Local History
Barmera will be celebrating it’s centenary in 2021. The library holds a collection of local historical books and information to assist people in their research. Located near the main desk, these items are for use in the library with knowledgeable staff on hand who are able to assist with general queries. Copies of our local newspaper “The Murray Pioneer” from 1963 to the present day are available for research in the library reading area. 
Additional items such as maps are also held in the Local Heritage Collection at Berri.

RSL ‘Australia at War’ Collection
The Berri Library & Information Centre is home to a unique collection of books, dvds, videos and memorabilia pertaining to Australia’s military history. This extensive range of materials is available for loan with the majority of items being donated by local people and RSL branches throughout the Riverland. These generous donations ensure the continuous growth of the collection and provide a valuable research resource for local students and community members. Items can be brought to the library or you are welcome to ring and arrange to have a staff member collect them.

Parenting Collections
Each library has a small collection of resources that parents may find useful when they are guiding children through various stages of development or family situations. Most items are books written either in story form or with factual content covering such topics as death, separation, moving house, travelling, bed wetting, starting school or loss of a pet. Please ask staff to direct you to these collections – they are located in the children’s areas of both libraries.

Audio Books
Barmera and Berri libraries provide many books in audio CD format. They range from popular authors to non-fiction titles and are available for a four week loan time. Audio books are a great option for those with vision impairment and for the elderly who find some books heavy or awkward to manage. People who travel for work purposes find audio books particularly useful to break a long journey as do parents who can set a story going at bedtime or on a cold, rainy day when children are inside.

Language Resources
Public libraries throughout South Australia hold a large collection of books written in languages other than English. Our libraries cater to the specific needs of clients in this area and are happy to arrange books on demand for individuals. Please talk to your library staff about organising this service for you. Barmera Library currently have a small collection of Greek, Italian, French, East and South East Asian books and Berri have a mixed selection.

Car Manuals
Berri Library has a good selection of manuals covering the main makes and models of cars and also includes some motorbikes and mowers. These are not available for loan but can be used in the library or copied within the legal restrictions that Copyright allows. Please ask staff for assistance or refer to the Copyright webpage for more specific details http://www.copyright.org.au/